FHS STAINED GLASS

THE FHS METCALF STAINED GLASS IS NOW
TOTALLY RESTORED AND HANGING IN THE
NEW FAIRVIEW PRE K-8 SCHOOL.
 

The new school is located at the corner of Hillcrest and
Elsmere in Dayton, Ohio close to our old Fairview High. 

Thanks to alumni donations, a large bronze plaque has been purchased and is displayed with the restored stained glass. The plaque states some details about the history of stained glass, the artists and the meaning behind the depictions shown within these two irreplaceable art treasures. 
 

Metcalf stained glass as displayed in the lobby of the new Fairview PreK-8 School.

 

Bronze plaque purchased to be displayed with the Metcalf stained glass in the new Fairview PreK-8 School and accompany the stained glass into the future. The plaque was made possible from donations made by Fairview High School Alumni to Fairview Windows P

 

Lobby of new FPK school showing the Metcalf stained glass, new bronze plaque (obsured in this photo by the stairway) and Bruiser our Fairview High Bulldog Mascot.

 

The Metcalf stained glass photos below were taken prior to restoration while the art was housed at FHS.
 

Above is a section of the Art Deco style stained glass window by Robert and Gertrude Metcalf, showing our Fairview High School motto and the tower from the original Fairview located at Catalpa and Fairview.

Detail of a section of the Art Deco style stained glass window by Robert and Gertrude Metcalf.

Top section of the World War II stained glass window created by Robert and Gertrude Metcalf.

Section of the World War II window created by Robert and Gertrude Metcalf.

FAIRVIEW METCALF STAINED GLASS WINDOWS HISTORY, PRESERVATION EFFORTS AND UPDATES

1938 Metcalf Art Deco style stained glass window

A committee of Fairview alumni began forming Fairview Windows Preservation, Inc. in January 2010.  (Please note: The following next few paragraphs of information was researched by the committee and partially used in our campaign brochure printed early in 2010.)  We are dedicated to the preservation of the two large stained glass windows at Fairview High School in Dayton, Ohio.  These works of art have graced the two stairway landings leading to the second floor facing Hillcrest for seven decades.  The effort is prompted due to the Dayton Public School’s uncertainty as to the fate of the windows.  While the architects’ initial plans for the new Fairview PK-8 School provided for the windows to be re-installed there in a back-lit display, the DPS has severe budgetary problems, so they may be unable to carry out that plan, leaving the fate of the windows to be in doubt.  Fairview is scheduled to be demolished by the end of 2010; however, currently there is a possibility of FHS being sold and the land being used for neighborhood housing.  If no steps are taken, there is a very significant risk that the windows will be damaged in a last minute effort (by non-professionals) to remove them and send them to storage at an ill-equipped DPS depot.  The windows have a rich Dayton history both within Fairview and with the local stained glass artists who created them.  Our intention is to ensure the two glorious Fairview windows are properly handled, restored, preserved and displayed in a secure permanent location for the enrichment of future generations and done so by art professionals.  We intend to ensure they are maintained and the history of the windows accompanies them in the years to come.  They are a Dayton treasure.  

The two windows were originally financed by FHS students from separate classes.  The students desire was for the windows to be forever appreciated and enjoyed by all future generations!  The Art Deco style window, installed in 1938, includes a portion of our school motto, “Healthful, Broadminded, Service-Seeking”, and shows the school’s major educational disciplines.  The World War II window was created in 1945.  It depicts four military branches, the Air Corp, Marines, Army and Navy.  It was dedicated in 1948 to the fifty-one Fairview High School alumni who died in WW II and the 1,600 others that served.  Both windows are incredible works of art and executed using centuries old craftsmanship and embellished with 12th century stained glass painting techniques.  They are extraordinary by yesterday's and today's standards. They have enduring value both historically and artistically.  For a brief description of Art Deco please visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Art_Deco .

1945 Metcalf World War II stained glass window

A Glimpse At The History of the Artists

The artists’ names are Robert Marion Metcalf and Gertrude Metcalf, a husband and wife team.  Mr. Metcalf was a native of Springfield, Ohio and attended Wittenberg College.  As a couple, Robert and Gertrude lived and worked in Yellow Springs, Ohio and for a number of years lived in Dayton View.  During their years in Dayton, Mr. Metcalf worked at the Dayton Art Institute as a faculty member and as Director of Decorative Arts.  They were both major art figures, not only in the creation of stained glass but also in its preservation.  They are known internationally for their body of work.  Their stained glass is seen throughout the United States in many churches and cathedrals, at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, at Fairview and other locations.  Nearby, Metcalf windows adorn the Episcopal Church of the Ascension on McGee Avenue in Middletown, Ohio and Christ Church Cathedral in Cincinnati, Ohio.

The Metcalfs had the foresight to photographically document the great stained glass in Europe just prior to the onset of WW II.  They were not only master stained glass artists, they were multi-talented.  He used his photography skills, while she kept detailed drawings and notations for each section of every stained glass window photographed.  This was a huge and courageous task.  Their efforts provided the detailed information required for accurate restoration and reinstallation of vast numbers of historic stained glass windows damaged or moved during the war.  The photographic undertaking also resulted in the Metcalf slide collection, of over 10,000 images. The collection was painstakingly formed and is now located at the Institute of Christian Art at Princeton University.  Please view this Princeton website: http://ica.princeton.edu/metcalf/index.php  and  http://ica.princeton.edu/metcalf/biography.php . Other information from a 1939 Time magazine article: http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,761987,00.html

Art historian Virginia Raguin, of the College of the Holy Cross, in Massachusetts, calls Robert Metcalf, “a major Arts and Crafts designer with important work in [in churches in] New York, Boston, [and] Newport, and in the Cathedral of St John the Divine [New York City],” and cites windows at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota and Fairview High School as other significant works.

 

The windows committee hopes you support the preservation of this historic art!!
"Dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of the historic Fairview High School Metcalf stained glass windows, for the enrichment of future generations."

The Fairview Windows Preservation Committee includes Committee Chairman and Treasurer Columbus, OH artist Jeri Jones Bland ’66, NY-based videographer Jack Berkemeier ‘63, Centerville teacher Carole Egusa Garland ’66, PA community service provider Howard Gorrell ’64, DC-based playwright and broadcaster Murray Horwitz ‘66, South Carolina educator Sandie Sturdivant Merriam ‘66 and VA attorney Edward Stout ’65.  They are joined by Dayton business operations manager who serves as our Committee President Al Donaldson ’65, Dayton fund-raiser and our Committee Secretary Susi Sower Hansen ’65, DC attorney Julie Kitzes Herr ’63, Dayton historical conservationist Robert Mousaian ‘62, Paris France attorney Jim Swank ’65, Assistant to Montgomery County Commissioner Jim Vangrov ’71, and Dayton business woman serving as a committee speaker Susanne Mousaian Weaver ’61.  Acting as special counsel and our Committee Vice-President is Dayton attorney Jim Swaim ’64 of Flanagan, Lieberman, Hoffman and Swaim, and special assistance from Dayton attorney Mark Feuer '70.  Adding support to our effort is the artists’ son Robert R. Metcalf Jr. who is a master stained glass artist in the Pacific Northwest.  Our sincere appreciation to Mr. Metcalf for his continued efforts, insightful conversations and significant historical information.  

Exterior of FHS showing the World War II window by local artists Robert and Gertrude Metcalf.

A sincere thank you to Virginia Burroughs for her generous advice. Virginia crusaded to rescue and preserve the MacFarlane (Dunbar) Mural which now resides at the Dayton Art Institute. She kindly gave us these two Tower News articles from 1945 and 1948.

Detail of a section of the World War II window created by Robert and Gertrude Metcalf.

Detail of a section of the World War II stained glass window created by Robert and Gertrude Metcalf.

Robert Marion Metcalf standing in front of his recently completed and installed Art Deco window at Fairview. (Photo courtesy of the artist son Robert Rahm Metcalf, also a master stained glass artist. Permission for use required.)

Master stained glass artist, Robert Marion Metcalf working on the Art Deco full size drawing from the sketch of the window design. (Photo courtesy of the artist son Robert Rahm Metcalf, also a master stained glass artist. Permission for use required.)

Poster advertising the famous Metcalf slide collection and a lecture at the Dayton Art Institute in the 1940s. (Photo courtesy of the artist son Robert Rahm Metcalf, also a master stained glass artist. Permission for use required.)

UPDATE and SUMMARY MAY 31, 2011

The Fairview Windows Preservation Committee thanks all of you who have supported the preservation efforts concerning the FHS Metcalf stained glass windows over the past year and a half!  Your support has come in many forms.  There have been emails and phone calls, letters, meetings attended, donations, petitions signed, there was even a YouTube video created, new friendships have been established and old friendships renewed.  You cannot beat those Bulldogs!  Everything has been appreciated and has helped the effort immensely!!  We will continue to keep you informed.

UPDATE MAY 31, 2011 CONERNING RESTORATION AND RELOCATION
1.  As posted previously, the two Metcalf stained glass windows from FHS have been saved.  We commend the DPS for saving this highly significant historical art.
2.  The DPS plans to pay for the restoration of the Metcalf stained glass and place both stained glass windows in the new Fairview PK-8 Commons School in backlit displays.  They should be on display in the new school prior to the opening for the fall 2011 school year.  The new school is located at Hillcrest and Elsmere.
3.  Contribution funds will be used for the windows, as planned and required in our incorporation and 501(c)(3) tax exemption documents.  Exactly how needs to be determined and we will keep you informed.  $7,300 has been contributed and documented in detail with copies given to our attorney.

SUMMARY SINCE JANUARY 2010:

• The windows committee has worked to ensure the preservation of the Fairview High School Metcalf stained glass for all future generations. We offered to assist the DPS with expenses for the removal and restoration of the windows, and recommended these irreplaceable pieces of art be relocated to a secure and permanent location.  On average, schools today are demolished after four or five decades.

• Many believe the school system could not and cannot afford or justify spending upwards of $50,000 to remove, properly restore and redisplay the windows and pay insurance expenses of art valued at $200,000, especially with the recent May 18, 2011 announcement of 294 jobs cut in the school district, including 138 support staff.  Please read the recent Dayton Daily News article from May 18, 2011 by clickiing here.  If you have concerns, please write to the Dayton Daily News Editor, 1611 S. Main St, Dayton 45409 or edletter@daytondailynews.com.

• The Fairview High School Class of 1945, who donated the World War II window as a memorial honoring the 1,600 FHS alumni who fought and especially the 51 who gave their lives, requested the windows to be relocated to the Carillon Historical Park.

• The Carillon was aware of the impressive worldwide historical significance of the windows and of the local artists Robert and Gertrude Metcalf.  The Carillon suggested the original art could be placed on loan to the Carillon and displayed in the new educational building.  The historical connection the Metcalf windows have to Dayton's Carillon Historical Park is similar to that of the Wright Brothers, Patterson and NCR connection.  All are part of Dayton's heritage.

• The Carillon offered to set up a partnering program with the DPS, allowing the new Fairview Commons PK-8 School students the opportunity to be trained and represent their school, the city, history and the arts as young docents in the park’s historical museum.  This would provide a valuable experience, similar to other successful partnerships and mentoring the DPS has initiated.

• Over 160,000 visitors, 36,000 or more of those being school children, would view the windows annually at the Carillon. This pales in comparison to the number of children in one neighborhood school yearly.  The Carillon is financially stable and the windows would be under the care of conservators, an interpretive staff, five staff curators, and housed in same climate control as the Smithsonian.  This could best maintain and protect the windows for posterity.

• The committee offered professional full sized high quality backlit digital transparency reproductions of the two Metcalf windows for display at the new Fairview Commons PK-8 School.  These incredible high tech reproductions would rival the originals!  We offered plaques stating the windows were on loan to the Carillon and other historical plaques to be created to accompany the Metcalf stained glass into the future.

• The reproductions could have been ready for the DPS to display prior to the opening of Fairview Commons PK-8 School.  The estimated total value of the two digital reproductions and backlit frames the committee offered was approximately $11,000.  This could reduce DPS insurance expenses and the responsibility to preserve and maintain fragile aging artwork.

• The committee also offered other alternatives for the new Fairview Commons PK-8 School atrium wall in place of the Metcalf stained glass.

• A mural designed by students could be created with the assistance of Stiver’s School for the Arts, the K-12 Gallery and locally known artists.  It could possibly depict current themes, heroes, athletes and today’s technology.  There would be tremendous value in giving young students an opportunity to create new art for their building, giving them pride and ownership.

• New stained glass windows could be created.  They could be designed by the new students or locally known artists and depict subject matter relevant in the 21st century.

• The committee spoke at several DPS Board Meetings and we requested many times to meet with the Board to discuss everything concerning the windows in detail to create a win-win situation for the school students, all citizens of Dayton and best protect the art for all future generations.

• The Dayton Public School Board and thousands of Dayton citizens and alumni have been informed and are now aware of the historic and artistic value of the two Fairview High School Metcalf stained glass windows.

  Questions and comments.   Please contact the Fairview Windows Preservation Inc. Committee Chairman.  Jeri Jones Bland, FHS class of  '66, wishingstar@columbus.rr.com.

April 13th photo of scaffolding in place for removal of the WWII stained glass window.

APRIL DPS BOARD MEETING DETAILS
AND REMOVAL OF THE METCALF
STAINED GLASS FROM FAIRVIEW 

UPDATE ON APRIL 27, 2011 CONCERNING THE APRIL DPS BOARD MEETING.  The Fairview Windows Preservation Committee was represented at DPS Board Meeting on April 19th.  Al Donaldson, committee member from the Class of '65, spoke briefly, complimenting the DPS for selecting Dayton Art Glass to remove the Metcalf stained glass windows from Fairview High School.  He noted what an exemplary job Dayton Art Glass did.  Al remarked about viewing part of the removal process and seeing the intense color and impressive details after the plexiglass protective panel was removed.  Next, a gentleman from one of the Fairview neighborhood priority groups spoke about some neighborhood and DPS issues and ended by asking DPS Board President Nerny where the windows will go.  She stated that they will go to the new Fairview Commons PK-8 School and said was there ever any doubt.  President Nerny ended by thanking him for coming to the table with the Board.

We respectfully asked again and again go to the table with the Board to discuss the proposed new location of the windows.  That was never granted.  We also tried to have discussions with some of the neighborhood and redevelopment groups, with no success.  The political environment is difficult.  We have tried to stay on the high road.

After the March DPS Board Meeting, we had heard very encouraging comments about the DPS placing the windows at the Carillon Historical Park and displaying reproductions in the new school.  It appears that will not occur.

The windows are saved and removed from Fairview High School, which is currently scheduled to be demolished in June 2011.  That is important!  With your support, we helped make certain that happened.  We helped educate the DPS, alumni from thirty classes and the citizens of Dayton.  Many people are now mindful of the story, historic and artistic value of the Metcalf stained glass windows.  Alumni and many others helped make this happen! 

End of story?  Not really.  We can all help continue to carry the story of the FHS Metcalf stained glass into the future.  As far as we know Dayton Art Glass has not yet given the DPS an estimate for restoration.  We will stay aware of the restoration process.  The committee will diligently watch, listen and remain available if changes occur.  Everything will remain in place as far as the committee and contributions.  We will see this through the completion of restoration and confirm that the windows are redisplayed and accompanied with appropriate plaques.

UPDATE ON APRIL 18, 2011 CONERNING REMOVAL OF THE STAINED GLASS.  The Metcalf stained glass windows were removed last week from Fairview High School.  It took about 4-5 days total.  Bob Mousaian, 1962 Fairview grad, was there to assist Dick Reichart the owner of Dayton Art Glass with the removal process.  Shown below are three photos taken on April 13th of the prep work for the WWII window.  So great that Bob was able to help.  Bob, as many know, is a member of the Fairview Windows Preservation Committee. 

The windows are currently in the expert hands of Dayton Art Glass, a local company.  They are very concerned about the safety and conservation of this historic art.  During removal, the windows were handled with the utmost care and respect.  Prior to removal, the view of the windows was nothing less than incredible with good lighting supplied and the plexiglass protective covering taken off.  We marveled at the incredible detail, intense color of the antique glass and all the masterful work of the artists who created them.  Sadly, these details will never be seen or appreciated if the windows are placed in the new school where they would be hung on the atrium wall approximately 10 feet off the ground.

It has been professionally determined that the windows are not in good condition.  Not surprising for stained glass of over 70 years old.  The committee was warned by experts what to expect.  The windows looked ok, so many thought they must be ok. They cannot be redisplayed without major restoration. 

The DPS had only gotten an estimate for removal of the windows and they need TOTAL restoration.  When old stained glass is removed from it's framed in home of over 70 years everything loosens up .... like taking off a pair of tight shoes you have worn all day.  The lead dries out over the years and when the outer steel support frame is removed everything becomes loose.  This is common and to be expected.  At least some of the restoration that was executed in place a number of years ago needs to be redone.

The windows will need to be taken down to the skeletal frame and completely restored.  The glass will be removed and some pieces will have to be replaced and repainted to replicate the original style and to keep the integrity of the art intact.  All pieces will have to be cleaned.  This is a very time consuming process.  The Dayton Art Glass professionals now have the task of educating the DPS about how the windows should be and need to be properly restored to keep their historic, artistic and monetary value. Right now we are holding tight and watching things carefully.  No confirmation about anything directly from the DPS.  At this point, we do not have confirmation if the DPS plans to or can afford to properly restore the windows.  Wish we had more to report.

TO VIEW THE MARCH 16th UPDATE ABOUT THE REPRODUCTION IDEA AND OTHER PERIODIC UPDATES, PLEASE SCROLL DOWN THE PAGE.

Bob Mousaian, FHS '62 grad, and Dick Reichart, owner of Dayton Art Glass.

Bob Mousaian pointing out some details.

Al Donaldson, FHS '65, and Bob Mousaian, FHS '62. Bob was assisting with removal of the window. Committee members Al Donaldson, Susi Sower Hansen, FHS '65, and Jeri Jones Bland, FHS '66, stopped by to watch.

Atrium wall in the new Fairveiw PK-8 School that is the proposed DPS location for the Metcalf stained glass.

The DPS's proposed location for the Metcalf stained glass is this artium wall in the new Fairview PK-8 school.  It is approximately 22 - 23 feet high.  The stained glass would be hung approximately 10 feet off the ground.  Please scroll down the page to view architect's renderings of this atrium.
 

STAINED GLASS WINDOWS UPDATES

UPDATE CONCERNING THE MARCH 16, 2011 DPS BOARD MEETING.  We made our questions crystal clear again at this public meeting.  I asked very specific questions that we hope to have answered soon.  The rest of the presentations were a bit on the lighter side.  Al Donaldson, class of '65, presented the prototype, spoke about how wonderful it would look in the new school and about all the benefits, including saving liability and insurance expenses.  The prototype did look very good!  Doug Benbow, class of '57, then spoke about the benefits of a possible student docent partnership with the Carillon.  I followed Doug.  Next, Susie Weaver, class of '61, spoke more on an emotional level and then Bob Mousaian, class of '62, spoke light heartedly about knowing artist Robert Metcalf while attending Antioch in the sixties and taking classes from him and about the high quality of a digital backlit reproduction.  Craig Dudley of InnoMark Communications donated the transparency and Jerry Hauer donated the wooden framed light box for the prototype, which were then assembled by Bob Mousaisn.  The great idea for the reproduction came from Susie Weaver.

We are so pleased with the wonderful docent idea that Doug Benbow and the Carillon came up with!!   The info Doug presented to the Board in his speech fit well with a presentation given by Principal Charlton from Dayton Technology Design High School earlier that evening.  That presentation was all about the benefits the students have acquired by mentoring and partnering with various businesses in town.  It has been impressively successful.  If the new Fairview PK-8 students could become docents at the Carillon through a partnership with the school and gain the experiences that go along with a docent's job and be proud that they have the same images in their school....now that is a win-win combination!  We have wanted everyone to benefit from the stained glass along with preserving the art!

After the meeting, several board members came over to closely view the prototype and ask a few relevant questions about the reproduction.  We heard some encouraging comments from the board.  I have sent a letter to the Board to explain the reproductions in greater detail and asked again when we can meet to help resolve all of this.

We now have 1000 names backing our efforts and we presented those to the DPS!!  A new stack of letters of support acquired since the February DPS Board Meeting was also given to the Board. Olympic Gold Medal Star, Edwin Moses, FHS ’73 and Baseball Hall of Fame Star, Mike Schmidt, FHS ’67, have signed the petition. 

We feel good about the meeting and feel we took a big step forward with the reproduction and docent ideas. Thank all of you for your continued support!  Jeri Jones Bland

 

UPDATES FOR JANUARY 30, 2011 CARILLON HISTORICAL PARK MEETING  AND THE FEBRUARY 15, 2011 BOARD MEETING.  A special meeting to discuss the future location of the FHS stained glass windows was held on January 30th at the Carillon Historial Park.  The class of 1945 who donated the WWII was represented and supportive.  The meeting was well attended.  Kress confirmed his interest in displaying the windows at the Carillon in a new education building.  This building has the same climate control as the Smithsonian.  Kress is keenly aware of the impressive worldwide historical significance of the FHS Metcalf stained glass windows.  He stated that the Carillon is financially stable.  They have conservators and five curators on staff to maintain and interpret the windows.  The priority is to ensure long term safety and the best public access for the windows.  At the Carillon, the windows would be viewed by over 160,000 people annually, including over 35,000 school children.  This pales in comparison to the number of children or adults who would annually benefit from the windows in a grade school.

At the February 15th DPS Board Meeting, six spoke in support of placing the FHS stained glass at the Carillon Historical Park.  Brady Kress again explicitly stated his interest in displaying the windows at the Carillon.  Plaques nearby could explain the DPS generously loaned them to the park museum.  The Fairview Windows Preservation, Inc. Committee Chairman, Jeri Jones Bland - FHS '66; committee President, Al Donaldson - FHS '65; Ned Denlinger and Tom Cecil from the class of 1945 spoke and also Ned's son, Phil Denlinger.  It was a strong presentation.  Only one person spoke in favor of relocating the windows to the new grade school.  The historical connection the Metcalf windows have to Dayton's Carillon Historical Park, is similar to the Wright Brothers, Patterson and NCR connection.  They are part of Dayton's heritage.  We have presented the school board with workable alternative solutions for the new grade school atrium wall and want to meet with them to discuss the options further.  Many believe that a school system cannot afford or justify spending upwards of $50,000 to remove and properly restore the windows.  Storage is not the answer.  We commend the DPS for saving the windows!  Now, we ask that they take one more step to ensure their future.  The school board said they would consider our presentation.  Thank you to all who attended these meetings!  

THE AMOUNT OF TIME REMAINING TO ACT IS NOW CRITICAL!
Fairview's demolition is pending.  The asbestos removal has begun.  The windows are scheduled to be removed in April.  The committee is asking that alumni and others make their voices known to the School Board and the Dayton Daily News, so the windows can be displayed at the Carillon.  At a museum, the windows would be under the care of a curator, preserved for posterity and would be easily accessible to the largest number of people.  This would best protect the windows and provide the greatest good for the greatest number of people.

Click on these links to read the latest Dayton Daily News articles:
The Carillon Meeting and the February 15th DPS Board Meeting.

UPDATE CONCERNIG THE NOVEMBER 16, 2010 BOARD MEETING. SPREAD THE WORD! THE EFFORTS CONTINUE!! The Fairview Windows Preservation, Inc. committee presented our remarks at the Dayton Public School Board Meeting on November 16th concerning the new location of the FHS stained glass windows. Susie Weaver, FHS '61, did a terrific job addressing the Dayton Public School Board. We were limited to five minutes, which is standard for the public. Each Board Member was also given an informational packet. Bob Mousaian, FHS '62, spoke in support of Susie's comments and added a few additional strong points.

After last night's meeting and after listening to the Board's brief response, we were admittedly frustrated. However we quickly rebounded!  The DPS repeated their well rehearsed words, stating that the windows are going to the new PK-8 elementary school and that they feel the new school is where the windows will do the most good both for children and community. They believe the windows will be easily seen and appreciated by large numbers of people at the new elementary school.

That being said, Brady Kress, the Director of the Carillon Historical Park, stated in a letter we presented to the Board at the meeting, that the park would definitely like to use the windows for a new family educational center at the park opening in August 2011.  That is the second letter we have received from him stating the park's expressed interest, but this one was more explicit and showed they have specific plans for the windows.  Both letters have now been shared with the DPS.  Kress also spoke to the artist son, Robert Metcalf Jr., by phone approximately a month ago with the same information.  He also stated in his letter that the park has over 160,000 visitors annually (36, 000 school children from 22 surrounding counties) but the DPS still says they would be more beneficial to more people at the new school.

The Board stated all they have accomplished in other new schools by including "artifacts" from numerous demolished Dayton school buildings.  Example: old light fixtures, fountains and even some stained glass etc. That is certainly all to be commended.  However....THESE METCALF WINDOWS ARE NOT ORDINARY ARTIFACTS. Seems the DPS cannot grasp the importance of that point. These windows are not ordinary church windows.  These valuable windows deserve a more accessible permanent home.

The preferred location is the CARILLON HISTORICAL PARK for all the world to see and appreciate these major works of art.  We now, more than ever, need to show as much support as possible for placing the Fairview High School stained glass windows in a public venue such as the CARILLON HISTORICAL PARK which would preserve and interpret it for generations to come. They now need to be properly preserved and displayed for the enjoyment of ALL future generations in a location accessible to ALL people.

A few examples of why:
• Not average but extraordinary historic art created by highly recognized internationally known artists. The local husband and wife team of Robert M. Metcalf and Gertrude Metcalf were extremely prominent figures in the arts and dedicated to help preserve Europe's great stained glass prior to the onset of WW II. The Metcalfs also assisted with war efforts on the home front working at Wright Patterson. The WW II window represents a most significant piece of history.

 • The windows are extraordinary examples of stained glass created using rare 12th century techniques by a true Master Stained Glass Artist.

 • The need for easy accessibility to ALL citizens.
 The windows should be preserved for the masses, and be available to be viewed by individuals state wide as well as internationally.

• Windows should be cared for by professional historians and art specialists.

• The benefits to the entire city, including tourism and the business community, likely benefits to the city's economy if placed in a museum, such as the Carillon.

We believe we should continue to write letters to the Board and emphasize our preferred location and to state why.  Please ask friends, business people or those interested in historic and art preservation to write to the Board, please do this.  They do not have to be FHS grads.  At this time particularly, we need more community support!

This is our heritage and the country's as well. The DPS has a unique opportunity to give back and to pay forward.  This would be a noble thing for them to do.  The windows now belong in a museum environment for the world to benefit from.  The Carillon Historical Park would not have expressed such strong interest if they did not recognize the major significance of this irreplaceable art.

We are poised to forge ahead ... although it was obvious last night, the Board would like us to stop.  We cannot do that.  We feel that we are just now beginning to see the community support we have needed.  Alumni remain concerned about the new location of the windows and now other citizens are as well.  We feel we have just seen the tip of the iceberg of citizen support.  NOW is the time!  We need an outpouring of alumni and community support!  If we do not speak loudly NOW, voice our concerns and our preference for the future of this great art, the Dayton Public Schools will place the stained glass in the new PK-8 elementary school being built at Hillcrest and Elsmere. The windows would hang on an interior wall.  In today's world, the interiors of schools are not easily accessible to the general public and usually closed on weekends.

From what we have learned the past month, the new school will be complete in the summer 2011.  The windows currently remain in place at FHS and probably will remain until the demo takes place.  We learned the asbestos abatement will not be done until Spring 2011.  So, it appears we have some time in our favor but we want to forge ahead at a firm, fast and steady pace.

YOU CAN HELP BY WRITING LETTERS!!
PLEASE WRITE TO THE DPS BOARD MEMBERS:
Nancy A. Nerny, President  -  NANerny@dps.k12.oh.us

Ronald C. Lee, Board Vice President - RonCLee@dps.k12.oh.us
Yvonne Isaacs, Accountability  -  YIsaacs@dps.k12.oh.us

Joe Lacey, Board Parliamentarian  -  JELacey@dps.k12.oh.us

Rev. William Schooler, Dayton Education Council - wbschooler@att.net
Sheila Taylor, Early Childhood Program Policy Com. -  SJTaylor@dps.k12.oh.us

Stacy  Thompson, OSBA Legislative Liaison  - SMThomps@dps.k12.oh.us

ALSO KEY PEOPLE TO CONTACT:

Lori Ward, Superintendent  - LWard@dps.k12.oh.us

John Carr, Chief Construction Officer  -  jcarr@dps.k12.oh.us

The entire School Board Member listing from the DPS website is on this web page  http://home.dps.k12.oh.us/about-us/board-of-education.html
Dayton Public Schools postal service address:
Dayton Public Schools, 115 S. Ludlow Street, Dayton, OH  45402

Click on the link to read a recent article in the Dayton City Paper!
http://www.daytoncitypaper.com/?p=2973

UPDATE AUGUST 28, 2010.  The Fairview Windows Preservation Committee Inc. is announcing that the official decision by the DPS is to place the stained glass windows in the new Fairview Commons PK-8 grade school at the corner of Hillcrest and Elsmere.  It is very satisfying to know the windows will be restored and saved. Due to the committee’s diligence, the DPS is now aware of the great significance and value of the windows and the Metcalfs prominent place in history.  The encouragement of many alumni and their generous donations helped make this possible.  After reviewing the committee's concerns and the window’s historical information we presented to them, the DPS had the windows appraised.  The preliminary appraisal value is two hundred thousand or more.  They admittedly were shocked.  We had encouraged the DPS to see the importance of allowing the Dayton Art Institute or the Carillon to be the future stewards of this great historic art.  These locations would allow thousands more people to view the windows yearly and the museums are accessible to the general public.  The entire city would benefit from a museum location, as well as people around the world. As many know, the financial situation of the DPS is rather bleak.  We will remain monitoring the progress of the removal, restoration and display of the windows.  There is a good deal more we will learn in the weeks ahead.  There are numerous issues that still need to be discussed with the DPS.  This is all we currently know.

An article about FHS and the stained glass windows will run in the Dayton Daily News on Sunday August 29, 2010, written by Meredith Moss, a former FHS grad.  Click on the link below.

www.daytondailynews.com/news/dayton-news/fairview-alumni-seek-to-preserve-historic-stained-glass-885912.html 

Please leave comments online or write the Dayton Daily News to express if you believe the DPS has made the best decision for the future location of this world-class art, created by internationally known artists.  Has good foresight been used?  This is a great part of Dayton's heritage.  Has the DPS considered the magnitude of this art now and for future generations fifty to one hundred years from today?  It is unlikely the new Fairview Commons will still be standing at that time.  The average life of a Dayton Public School is approximately 65 years using old building techniques.  The DPS posted on their website as of 3/26/10, that the average life of an American elementary or secondary school is 40-60 years.  Perhaps less, considering the quality of building today and 80 years ago are so vastly different.  Who will revisit the preservation of the windows when Fairview Commons is demolished?  Will the DPS be certain to preserve the history of the windows and to pass that information on to students plus the citizens of Dayton? Or will the history be lost? In the past, the students at FHS were not taught the history of the windows.  Will the DPS have money for the necessary continued conservation?

A rendering of the new school and the proposed new location of the windows is below.  The DPS intends for the windows to be displayed on an interior wall in the atrium and the windows will be artificially backlit.  This takes expert professionals for it to be done correctly.  Will the DPS use the best professionals available?  Stained glass is inherently very fragile art, especially as it ages.  Are rare stained glass windows of this value and historic significance well suited for a PK-8 grade school.

The windows are shown on the back interior wall of the atrium. They would be framed, artificially backlit and hung about 10 feet off the ground. (rendering by R.P. Madison International, Inc.)

The new Fairview Commons PK-8 grade school located at Hillcrest and Elsmere. (rendering by R.P. Madison International Inc.)

WHERE WILL OTHER ARTIFACTS FROM FHS GO?
STONE RELIEFS, ROOKWOOD FOUNTAINS AND
BRUISER THE BULLDOG

The Dayton Public Schools plan to incorporate the 1955 sculpture of Bruiser the Bulldog (adopted in 1923 as school mascot) into the new Fairview Commons PK-8 grade school building at Hillcrest and Elsmere.  We understand that some items from FHS and other schools are now being stored at Carlson Elementary School, which is currently only used as a repository.  We asked John Carr, at the DPS, and he does not believe any of the items are inventoried. It is known that in the past, many items have been demolished with the old buildings, sold or trashed in dumpsters. Since the public has been made aware of this, the DPS has been trying to resolve the issue by using a repository for some items.  Recently some items have been incorporated into other schools. They are considering saving the five Four Freedoms tablet reliefs above the library door and the six Robert Koepnick stone reliefs on the exterior wall of the auditorium.  Koepnick was a prominent Dayton artist who lived from 1907-1995.  These handsome stone carvings depict sports, science, theater, music, art, and reading.  Also under consideration for removal are two of the Rookwood fountains.  Rookwood Pottery Company, founded in 1880, is located in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Four Freedom tablet reliefs located above the Fairview High library door. These are now displayed at the new FPK school.

Robert Koepnick stone reliefs on exterior of auditorium. Photo shows only four of the six reliefs. Several rellefs were damaged during demolition and all are stored at a DPS storage facility.

Close up of the Koepnick music relief

The Rookwood fountain near the main office depicting the old Fairview Tower. This fountain is in storage with Bob Mousaian who partially restored it.

The Rookwood fountain located on the first floor near the middle stairway facing Hillcrest. Dedicated in 1934 to then Assistant Principal Miss Theresa Folger and Principal Don Longnecker. It was restored by Bob Mousaian and is now displayed at the new NW

Bruiser our marble bulldog mascot. Now displayed at the new FPK school.